The morning had been a blur of excitement, nerves, and last-minute touches, but now, standing behind the doors of the ceremony venue, everything stilled. The soft hum of whispered conversations filled the air, the faint scent of fresh flowers wrapping around you as you gripped your bouquet tightly.

Madelyn adjusted the train of your dress with a reassuring squeeze on your arm. “You ready?” she whispered, her voice laced with emotion.

You exhaled, your heart pounding in anticipation. “More than ever.”

As the doors opened, a wave of warmth washed over you. The aisle stretched before you, lined with twinkling candles and the people you loved most. But none of it compared to the sight of Drew standing at the altar.

His sharp blue eyes locked onto yours the moment you stepped forward. He looked devastatingly handsome—his dark suit tailored perfectly, his hair tousled just enough to remind you that, no matter how put-together he was now, he was still the man who stole your heart with his easy charm and infectious laugh. But what really undid you was the way his expression softened, emotion pooling in his eyes as he took you in like he was seeing you for the first time.

You barely registered the music or the steady steps carrying you forward—your world had shrunk down to just him. When you finally reached him, Drew let out a breathless laugh, shaking his head slightly.

“You’re unreal,” he murmured, his voice just for you.

Your fingers trembled as he took your hands in his, holding them like they were something sacred.

The ceremony passed in a haze of stolen glances and soft smiles. But nothing compared to the moment Drew gently brushed a tear from your cheek and whispered, “I’ve never loved anyone like this,” right before the officiant finally said the words you’d been waiting for.

“You may now kiss the bride.”

Drew wasted no time. His hands found your waist as he pulled you close, capturing your lips in a kiss so full of love it sent a cheer through the crowd. The world blurred around you.